Q112 / 150 · MHT CET 2025 (20 Apr Shift 1) · Physics

For a particle moving in a circle with constant angular speed, which of the following statements is 'false'?

  • A
    The velocity vector is tangent to the circle.
  • Correct answer
    B
    The acceleration vector is tangent to the circle.
  • C
    The velocity and acceleration vectors are perpendicular to each other:
  • D
    The acceleration vector points to the centre of the circle.

Solution

A: The velocity vector is tangent to the circle in all curvilinear motion, including circular motion. This holds for uniform circular motion.

B: The acceleration vector points radially inward as centripetal acceleration, not tangent to the circle. Only a tangential acceleration component would exist if angular speed were changing, which it is not.

C: Since velocity is tangent and acceleration is radial, they are perpendicular at every point.

D: Uniform circular motion produces purely centripetal acceleration directed toward the circle's center.

Statement B is false.

Hence, the correct answer is option: 'B'.

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